Who could have predicted absolutely the runaway achievement of luxurious SUVs while Mercedes-Benz delivered the first M-class two decades ago? What started out as a checking out-the-waters foray into midsize SUV territory, the M-Class — renamed GLE-Class in 2015 — is now a cornerstone of premium SUVs as we realize them today. For the 2020 model year, Mercedes appears to firmly solidify its region as a benchmark of luxury midsize offerings.

Meet the new GLE-Class, which Mercedes-Benz formally unveiled this week ahead of the SUV’s Paris Motor Show public debut. When it goes on sale within the US, it will be offered in GLE350, GLE350 4Matic and GLE450 4Matic models — with subsequent AMG variants to observe, natch.

The GLE has some ground to make up in CR’s road tests because the newest version trails several key competitors, together with the more moderen Audi Q7 and BMW X5. The turbocharged 4- and 6-cylinder engines, nine-pace computerized transmission, and aerodynamic improvements may additionally help cope with a few fuel economy shortfalls.

A roster of driver-assist capabilities improves its generation credentials, which include innovations inclusive of adaptive cruise control that’s knowledgeable by traffic data.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE will be built in Tuscaloosa, Ala. It goes on sale in the U.S. in spring 2019.

Formerly offered most effective with rows, the GLE boasts an optional third-row seat, that is possible way to a wheelbase that has grown via 3.1 inches. From bumper to bumper, the brand new GLE is 5.2 inches longer, and it is wider, too. These dimensional updates mean that all GLE buyers will experience extra space interior, whether they choose the 2-row or the three-row format. This new improvement restraint customer to buy custom car covers for their new vehicles because without custom indoor car covers, their is a chance of losing it.

Under the hood, the GLE gets two new engines, both paired with the same nine-speed automatic transmission. For the base GLE 350 and GLE 350 4Matic (all-wheel-drive) models, there’s a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The GLE 450 4Matic steps up to a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six (362 hp, 369 lb-ft) that’s paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system called EQ Boost. This system provides up to 21 additional horsepower for short bursts, and it’s also used to power the starter and the available adaptive suspension, which individually controls spring and damping forces at each wheel.